5 Tips for Seniors: Cyber-Crime Prevention

Cyber-crime is a growing concern that can affect any member of the population. Seniors can be more vulnerable because they often lack the awareness of cyber security techniques that younger and more tech-savvy people may have.

They also tend to have a fair amount of savings, making them valuable targets for scammers. Here are some easy tips for seniors to follow to help reduce their risk of becoming a victim of cyber-crime, from our CCRC in Sussex County, New Jersey:

1. Don’t respond to emails and texts requesting personal information. Scam emails and texts often look entirely legitimate and typically pose as being from a company whose services you use. They’ll offer an upgrade or special, or even claim that something is wrong with your account — this will include a request for your personal information like social security or credit card details.Never respond to these emails and texts, and don’t click any links in them — don’t even give your name or phone number. If you are worried that the email is legitimate, call the company directly at their listed number and they can assist you from there.
2. Create strong passwords. The passwords that you use for online services should be at least eight characters in length, using a combination of letters, numbers and symbols. An easy way to remember these passwords is simply to write them down in a notebook that you keep in a safe place inside your home or with a loved one.
3. Secure your social media. Facebook and other social media platforms have security measures that you can activate to protect your information, so ensure that these are kept on their highest setting. Don’t accept friend requests from people you don’t know, and don’t share your personal information with them.
4. Browse the internet safely. Ensure that you have up-to-date security software on your computer to prevent infection from viruses and malware (software programs designed to steal information or harm your data). Don’t enter contests or sign up for clubs online unless you are sure that they are from a reputable organization, as this may be another way to steal your personal information.
5. Get advice from a trusted person. If you are unsure of the legitimacy, want to learn more about using your computer or fixing a technical issue, be sure to ask for help from a reputable source. Often, a family member who is tech savvy can assist you – even from the other side of the country – or find a reputable company who can send out a tech assistance specialist to work on your system. It is easy for someone to pose as a helpful person and steal information directly from your computer under the guise of assisting you.

A Warm, Welcoming Senior Community – Visit Our CCRC in Sussex County, NJ 

Bristol Glen is a CCRC based in Sussex County that aims to provide seniors with comfortable, serviced living arrangements that free up time to enjoy life. Many living styles are offered including, independent living, assisted living, memory care, long-tern nursing care, and short-term rehabilitation.

Contact us to find out more about our CCRC and our assisted living in Sussex County, New Jersey, please visit our website at https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/ and book your visit today.